There’s nothing quite like the aroma of an apple pie baking in the oven. McCall’s Apple Pie is the quintessential comfort dessert that brings back warm, nostalgic memories of family gatherings and festive occasions.
First things first, let’s get the pastry ready. If you’re using store-bought pastry, take it out of the fridge and let it come to room temperature. This makes it easier to handle. If you’re crafting your own, kudos! Ensure it’s rolled out evenly.
Step 2: Make The Apple Filling
Peel, core, and slice your apples. Toss them in a large bowl with lemon juice. This prevents browning and adds a subtle tang that balances the sweetness. Add sugar, flour, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Mix until apples are well-coated.
Step 3: Assemble The Pie
Place the bottom crust in a 9-inch pie dish. Pour the apple mixture into the crust, spreading it out evenly. Dot the filling with small chunks of butter. Cover with the top crust, trim the excess pastry, and pinch the edges to seal. Cut a few slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape.
Step 4: Brush With Egg Wash
Beat the egg yolk with a little water. Brush this over the top crust for a beautiful, golden finish.
Step 5: Bake The Pie
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place the pie on a baking sheet and bake for 45-50 minutes. When the crust is golden and the filling is bubbly, your pie is ready. Let it cool for a bit to set.
Notes
Understanding each ingredient is key to mastering this pie.
Apples: Use a mix of tart and sweet apples for complexity. Granny Smiths provide tartness, while Honeycrisps or Galas add sweetness.
Butter: Adds richness to the filling and ensures a flaky crust.
Spices: Cinnamon and nutmeg are classic spices that bring warmth. Be careful not to overuse them as they can overpower the apples.
Lemon Juice: Prevents apples from browning and enhances the flavors.
Egg Yolk: Gives the crust a beautiful sheen and helps it crisp up nicely.